While the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) celebrated the 12th Passport Seva Divas on June 24th, boasting a 15% annual growth in passport services and a vast network of processing centers under the leadership of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the reality for many Indians remains entangled in bureaucratic red tape.
A Frustrating Journey for Aspiring Travelers
Despite reported improvements in the Passport Seva program, the process remains riddled with unnecessary complexities. The online application system, lauded by the MEA, is bogged down by a maze of documentation requirements, often unclear and subject to interpretation by individual officials. Errors or inconsistencies can lead to application rejections, forcing applicants to navigate the system again, adding to delays and frustration.
Police Verification: A System Ripe for Reform
One of the most contentious aspects of the Indian passport process is the mandatory police verification. Intended to ensure national security, this system is widely perceived as a breeding ground for corruption. Allegations of police officials demanding bribes to expedite the verification process are rampant, leading to delays for those unwilling to participate. This not only adds financial burden but also injects a layer of moral ambiguity into a system seeking to ensure security.
The Human Cost of Bureaucracy
The human cost of this bureaucratic labyrinth is significant. Aspiring students miss deadlines for foreign universities, professionals lose out on job opportunities, and families are separated due to delays in obtaining passports. The emotional toll is equally heavy, with individuals left feeling helpless and disrespected by their own government.
The Shame of a Low Ranking
India’s passport woes are further compounded by its ranking in the global mobility sphere. The Henley Passport Index consistently ranks India low – currently at 87th position (as of June 2024). This translates to visa-free access to a mere 60 destinations, a stark contrast to countries like Singapore (192 visa-free destinations) and Germany (189).
The ramifications of this low ranking are far-reaching. Indian citizens face stringent visa requirements and lengthy application processes, hindering travel plans and limiting international business opportunities.
Seeking Solace in Foreign Shores
Frustrated by the cumbersome passport process and the limitations it imposes, a growing number of Indians are seeking foreign citizenship. Countries like Canada, Portugal, and the United Arab Emirates have seen a surge in applications from India, with many willing to undergo the often-complex process of naturalization in exchange for a passport that unlocks greater global mobility.
This trend highlights a sense of disillusionment with the Indian system. While the Indian dream promises opportunity and growth, the reality of bureaucratic hurdles can feel like a suffocating roadblock. The ability to travel freely is often seen as a mark of personal and professional success, and the limitations imposed by the Indian passport can be a major demotivator.
A Call for Streamlining and Transparency
The need for reform in the Indian passport system is undeniable. Streamlining application procedures, providing clear and consistent guidelines, and eliminating unnecessary documentation can significantly enhance the citizen experience. Furthermore, a complete overhaul of the police verification process is essential. Implementing robust online verification systems, coupled with stricter penalties for corrupt officials, can not only expedite the process but also restore public trust.
Looking Ahead: A Passport to Progress
The Indian government’s focus on improving the efficiency of passport services, as highlighted during Passport Seva Divas, is a positive step. However, a more fundamental shift in mindset is required. The passport should not be seen as a bureaucratic hurdle, but rather as a facilitator of opportunity and growth. A streamlined and corruption-free passport system would not only serve the aspirations of millions of Indians but also project a more positive image of India on the global stage.
The Indian passport has the potential to be a powerful symbol of national pride, a key that unlocks doors to a world of possibilities. By prioritizing citizen experience and embracing technology-driven solutions, the Indian government can transform the passport process from a source of frustration to a passport to progress.
